It has been just ten days since Ashton Jeanty went down with an injury in Raiders camp and didn't return. That was Sunday, August 23, which was exactly three weeks from the start of the Raiders' 2026 season. Making today right about the halfway point. And as of today, the Raiders seem to be feeling pretty good about Jeanty's chances of playing.
Today head coach Klint Kubiak was asked for an update on Jeanty, and he said "He's continuing to improve" and as to whether he is confident Jeanty will be available for the opener, he gave a firm "Yes."
This would seem to add to what GM Johh Spytek said of Jeanty the day before.
"I expect him to be back as quick as he can, maybe quicker than some people would expect," Spytek said of Jeanty.
Now, obviously, that's not a definitive timeline. But, then again, neither is being optimistic. However, it's probably a far cry from the fears the team initially had when Jeanty went down in practice.

#jeanty #spytek

In what has been expected for months, Kirk Cousins will be the Las Vegas Raiders starting quarterback in Week 1 when they host the Miami Dolphins at Allegiant Stadium.
New Las Vegas coach Klint Kubiak made the announcement Wednesday that Cousins and not rookie, No. 1 overall pick, Fernando Mendoza, will lead the team to start the season.
This has long been the expectation. Both Kubiak and Las Vegas general manager John Spytek have said, in a perfect world, they wouldn't rush a rookie quarterback onto the field. Raiders' part owner Tom Brady reportedly also was in favor of not of playing Mendoza early.
Cousins, 38, made the decision easy as he had a strong training camp and preseason. The 15th year veteran has played for Kubiak in the past and should give the Raiders a chance to win while Mendoza continues to prepare to start his career.
The Mendoza era is coming, but first, it will be Cousins under center for the Silver and Black.

#raiders

Between Las Vegas Raiders fans and fantasy football players, there's no shortage of Ashton Jeanty followers collectively holding their breath regarding the running back's return timeline. After going down during training camp on August 23, there were initial concerns about the severity of Jeanty's injury, but it was later diagnosed as an ankle sprain, with his return timeline largely considered TBD.
Considering Jeanty's injury occurred weeks before the start of the 2026 NFL season, and with fantasy football drafts just ramping up, it's created a few tough decisions for fantasy owners. Thankfully, it appears that Jeanty is quickly trending in the right direction, at least considering what we've heard from head coach Klint Kubiak and general manager John Spytek.
Spytek spoke with the media early this week and gave a positive overall update on Jeanty, but refused to go so far as to specifically cite when the running back could be ready for in-game action. However, he did say that he believes Jeanty could be back "maybe quicker than some people would expect."
"I think he's in a good spot. We see him every day," Spytek said. "He's working really hard. He's on the mend, as Klint said. I think that's one of the things we all like and respect about Ashton is just the maturity he has and the spirit that he has, that it's hard to knock him down. And I think he attacks everything with a great mindset. And I don't think that this will be any different for him. I expect him to be back as quick as he can, maybe quicker than some people would expect. When that is, we'll see. But I think he's in a good spot, and I think he'll be ready to go when we get him back out there."
Spytek's comments come after former NFL head doctor David J. Chao (ProFootballDoc) posted on X discussing Jeanty's injury and the fact that he had no boot, crutches or limp late last week. He predicted that Jeanty could be back on the field for Week 1.

#jeanty #back #spytek #expect

Right now there are a few players who were signed by NFL teams that are now attempting to exploit what they see as a loophole and return to play college football. A lot of NFL and college coaches and front office people have been asked about it and many of them have some strong opinions. Most notably Colts GM Chris Ballard who said plainly that he thinks it's the "stupidest s--t I've ever heard".
Tuesday it was Raiders GM John Spytek and ****** istant GM Brian Stark's turn in front of the media. The subject came up to them. Stark answered first and attempted to be diplomatic about it before backing away from it.
"Yeah, I mean, I can't fault the players for if it's permissible and that's available to them," said Stark. "I haven'treally thought much about it to be honest with you. We've been pretty busy here the last few weeks, so Ihaven't put too much thought into it. But if it's available to them, if that's an option, it's hard to fault themfor doing it. But that's about all I got on that."
After that it was Spytek's turn and he had the perfect response -- "I'm not giving you any Chris Ballard quotes."
The line drew big laughs from Stark and the room full of media. Spytek was, of course, referring to Ballard's line about how stupid he thinks it is. Ballard went further even, adding "Your entire life, you fight to get up to the NFL. But now we're gonna go back? OK! That makes a lot of freakin' sense."

#spytek

The Las Vegas Raiders drafted Fernando Mendoza with plans for him to take the reins as the starting quarterback. John Spytek and Klint Kubiak believe in the young quarterback and what he can do for the franchise in the future.
When it comes to putting him on the football field, the team wants to make sure he is ready. That's why the team brought in Kirk Cousins as a stopgap quarterback until they feel he is fully up to speed. During the preseason, Mendoza had ups and downs, which is why they thought Cousins should start early.
The question now becomes: when does Mendoza get the starting job? The number of games he plays this year will help him reach his potential earlier, where he can learn while the bullets are flying.
In this week's SB Nation Reacts, we ask Raider Nation if Mendoza will start 10 games. Raider Nation doesn't have faith it will happen, with only 25% agreeing he will start 10 games.
If Mendoza does get into the starting lineup, you would expect him to have the job for the rest of the season. Fans expect to wait a long time for that to happen.

#starting #quarterback

Raiders GM gives update on Maxx Crosby trade status originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Even though Maxx Crosby is back with the Las Vegas Raiders for now, that by no means is an indication that his career will wrap up in Vegas. The NFL is full of surprises, and considering the Raiders tried to trade him once during the offseason, it could certainly happen again, under the right circumstances.
That's one of the biggest storylines in the NFL right now. Crosby is still a top-notch edge rusher, and that means he could still bring a sweet trade deal for the Raiders.
Now, Raiders general manager John Spytek is opening up about Crosby and his status with the team. He's shedding light on where they stand right now.
In an interview with NFL insider Charles Robinson, Spytek shut down talk of a trade with Crosby for now. Of course, things can change, but for now, he was very clear that Crosby is in Vegas.

#spytek #means

I broke down the 2027 scouting classes in my early summer scouting series, and the room has a ton of potential with a long list of potential standout players. I broke down the offense and defense in articles and I suggest reading those for a broad aspect of the room. The Raiders do have some talent on the interior OL, and I'd expect Las Vegas to add more in 2027 as John Spytek does. The Raiders will see Jeremy Chinn possibly hit free agency, and they did add rookies Treydan Stuke & Dalton Johnson this last year, though Stukes likely will play a diverse bandit safety role leaving some holes in the FS and SS positions. The 2027 draft class is exceptional at safety, and Las Vegas could really use a rangy over the top free safety that they have lacked for a long time.
These rankings are extremely early, and they will evolve over not only the summer but the next 8-10 months throughout the season, and into draft season. Some lists will feature 10, 15, 20, or more ranked prospects but I'll include others on the list below to note.
Tae Johnson, Notre Dame – 6'3/195, R-So
Elite. Johnson is coming off a 2025 where in his first year as a starter he logged 51 tackles, 4 INT, and 7 PBU with another 2 TD and a FF. Johnson allowed a 51.7 QBR, is an elite tackler, and he's an uber athlete. He has a phenomenal first step and continues to show sideline to sideline ability. Johnson plays physical, has elite hip flexibility, and he uses his full body in most reps with an ability to consistently turn and run and take away passing lanes. Johnson is smart, he has an ability to read and react well, and with his first step quickness Johnson can close passing lanes quickly to jump routes. As a run defender, Johnson is able to drive downfield, he's shown good great tackling angles, and is just a strong tackler overall. There's a lot of potential for Johnson to be even better than Xavier Watts, Alohi Gilman, and Kyle Hamilton.
KJ Bolden, Georgia – 6'0/190, Jr

#elite

On Monday, July 27, Bucs defensive lineman Vita Vea requested a trade from the franchise that drafted him, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.
Vea is heading into the final year of a four-year, $71 million extension that he signed in January of 2022. The request comes on the heels of other notable defensive lineman extensions over the last year from the likes of Devonte Wyatt of the Green Bay Packers and Quinnen Williams of the Dallas Cowboys.
So if a trade is to occur, who makes sense? Every **** yst has thrown out their ideas and the latest of Steve Palazzolo of Check the Mic Palazzolo explains his choices, starting in the AFC East.
"Starting with Buffalo Bills. They've been needing that 340-pound big body nose tackle for a while. Show up that run defense. Great fit for a new defensive coordinator, Jim Leonard. How about the Chicago Bears? Their run defense was awful last year. They need impact defensive linemen, and they didn't do enough this offseason. And then the wild card, rumors that Vita Vea wouldn't mind going to the Las Vegas Raiders, even though they're rebuilding, first contract quarterback, they have money to spend. John Spytek, Tom Brady connection..."
It seems a lot of change is coming to the Bucs over the last couple of months. They lost veterans and leaders, Lavonte David to retirement and Mike Evans to free agency. Now, they have Baker Mayfield upset with contract talks and Vea requesting a trade?

#bucs

I broke down the 2027 scouting classes in my early summer scouting series, and the room has a ton of potential with a long list of potential standout players. I broke down the offense and defense in articles and I suggest reading those for a broad aspect of the room. The Raiders do have some talent on the interior OL, and I'd expect Las Vegas to add more in 2027 as John Spytek does.
These rankings are extremely early, and they will evolve over not only the summer but the next 8-10 months throughout the season, and into draft season. Some lists will feature 10, 15, 20, or more ranked prospects but I'll include others on the list below to note.
Colin Simmons, Texas – 6'3/245, Jr
Simmons is twitched up, and he'll have a race to be the first EDGE off the board with Dylan Stewart. He's posted a career 29.5 TFL and 21 sacks in two seasons and he's extremely athletic, strong, and shows a ton of pass rush moves. Simmons converts his speed to power, uses his full body, and plays with extreme violence. While slightly undersized, Simmons does have elite length, he is extremely quick off the ball, and moves exceptionally well when working laterally. Simmons has the ability to anchor vs the run, shows great lower body flexibility, and his biggest goal in 2026 is to continue developing and stay healthy. Simmons reminds me a lot of Jared Verse, and should be a perennial Pro Bowler in the NFL.
Dylan Stewart, South Carolina – 6'5/250, Jr

#extremely #stewart #broke #early

HENDERSON, Nev. (AP) — Raiders general manager John Spytek didn't hesitate to try to improve the NFL's worst offensive line, a unit that made life miserable last season for quarterback Geno Smith and running back Ashton Jeanty.
He snagged three-time Pro Bowl center Tyler Linderbaum out of Baltimore by handing him the richest contract ever for an interior offensive lineman.
His presence and the return of standout left tackle Kolton Miller, who suffered a season-ending ankle injury after just four games, was a much-needed boost.
So there is genuine hope in Las Vegas the line will be better, but how much is difficult to tell.
"I think last year there was a lot of moving pieces," Miller said. "I think the goal is to have the best five out there, build together, add to it each day, and really build for long-term success. This isn't easy. Coaching O-line takes time and it's a lot of work. It's underappreciated. You can't get too frustrated about it. You've just got to find ways to improve each day."

#season

Patriots Predicted To Make League-Altering Trade For Five-Time Pro Bowler originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The New England Patriots had just 35 sacks last season, and their pass rush could still use a boost.
The Patriots lost K'Lavon Chaisson in free agency, but replaced him with Dre'Mont Jones. They also drafted Gabe Jacas in the second round of the NFL Draft. On top of that, they should be getting a healthy Harold Landry back. Regardless, their pass rush ranked near the bottom of the NFL last season, and they could still use more help.
The Patriots are likely going to give their additions a chance to make an impact, but if they are still struggling to get to the quarterback by the trade deadline, a move could be in the cards. Bleacher Report's Moe Moton predicted the Patriots would trade for Las Vegas Raiders superstar Maxx Crosby at the trade deadline.
"The Raiders will go through rough patches as they grow together, but Crosby, who turns 29 in August, may not have many optimal years left," wrote Moton on Thursday. "General manager John Spytek may decide it's best to trade the star edge-rusher for a first-round pick and more while he's still playing at a Pro Bowl level on a team that may be a year or two away from playoff contention. The New England Patriots may seek help for their pass rush in the second half of the upcoming campaign."

Let’s face it, Fernando Mendoza is the one variable that will be most impactful for the Las Vegas Raiders next season. The Raiders’ receiving corp has question marks surrounding it, and the secondary is youthful as ever, but quarterback play will tell the story for Las Vegas in 2026.
According to Fox Sports’ Ben Arthur, the biggest question that the Raiders face entering the summer is when Mendoza will get the call to start next season.
”The expectation is that veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins will start the season for the Raiders while Mendoza sits and learns. That’s the preference of new head coach Klint Kubiak and general manager John Spytek. But struggles by Cousins and/or a quick acclimation by Mendoza would present a situation where the No. 1 overall pick sees the field earlier than expected.”
Conventions figure to rule the day in Las Vegas to begin next season, much to the benefit of Cousins. Nevertheless, with a talent like Mendoza, ticket holders will be sliding off of their seats at some point in the year if they’re forced to sit on the edge of them for too long until the Heisman Trophy winner starts.
Mendoza has the potential to rack up significant yardage in the air, gain meaningful yards on the ground, and find his receivers in the end zone frequently, as was the case in his senior season at Indiana in 2025, where went for 3,535 passing yards and led the nation in passing touchdowns with 41. Mendoza will end up getting the call under center for the Raiders at some point, but the sooner the better, and not just for the long haul.

By all accounts, the Las Vegas Raiders put all their eggs in the Klint Kubiak basket.
Sure, there were other intriguing candidates to **** ume the mantle of the 27th head coach of the Silver & Black such as Davis Webb (who remained with the Denver Broncos and got a promotion) and Carolina Panthers defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero. But Las Vegas rolled the dice by patiently waiting for Kubiak, who was orchestrating the Seattle Seahawks’ offense enroute to a Super Bowl win this past season.
Don’t lie: You were concerned the Raiders’ waiting game was going to end in Kubiak spurning the team. It’s okay to admit it now.
Thus, Las Vegas’ initial gamble paid dividends from the get now that Kubiak is captaining the ship. That was the initial major get for general manager John Spytek and minority owner Tom Brady — the two people owner Mark Davis tabbed to find his football team a new lead man.
And the upcoming 2026 campaign will tell Kubiak and Spytek plenty. Raider Nation, too.

Raiders held NFL draft meeting with rising LB prospect

The Las Vegas Raiders completely revamped their linebacker position in NFL free agency. General manager John Spytek signed both Nakobe Dean and Quay Walker to lucrative contracts. Before free agency opened, the Raiders may have been targeting the 2026 NFL draft to upgrade the position.
That's the indication from a recent report. Cincinnati linebacker Jake Golday is among the best prospects at the position in the 2026 NFL draft. Golday recently confirmed he had a formal interview with the Raiders at the NFL Scouting Combine.
"I had a b